Music to Your Ears Part I: Add Something New to Your Tired Out Playlist

Looking for some new artists to add to your playlist? Here are five talented musicians that are definitely worth spending your money on. I was fortunate enough to be able to see each artist in concert, and even share a pint with a few of them as well. I have added my personal favorites of each artist's song library, just to give you a good start to checking them out!

1. Joey Ryan- Los Angeles, CA

With musical influences ranging from Coldplay to the Rolling Stones, this native Californian needs very little introduction. His genuine and sometimes emotional ballads woo his audience, while his gentle melodies and soothing vocals bring with them memories of lazy summer evenings by the campfire. His songs "Loving You" and "As It Must Be" have recently been featured on the hit show One Tree Hill.

(Personal Favorite: "Like A Cloak" from ...with its roots above and branches below.)

2. Jay Nash- Los Angeles, CA

Nash's laid-back sound is reminiscent of the traditional American Rock of Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan. He stuns audiences with his amazing range and powerful vocals, easily guiding his songs from soft and lazy to an eruption of soulful fervor. As if his vocals weren't talent enough, his impressive guitar licks only compliment his distinctiveness.

(Personal favorite: "Wayfarer" from Some Kind of Comfort)

3. Garrison Starr- Nashville, TN

She may be the only chick on my list, but "GStarr" holds her own against these boys. Each song she creates is performed passionately, as she pours her heart out to the audience. Her heartfelt lyrics connect to her listeners on many levels, on topics of religion, relationships, and life in general. She is honest, she is real, and you will relish every note she plays.

(Personal favorite: "Superhero" from Eighteen Over Me)

4. The Challenge of Feral Green- United Kingdom

A talented singer/songwriter out of the UK, Sebastian Rogers' The Challenge of Feral Green is a music experience not to be missed. His folk-y acoustics and cozy voice send listeners into a delicious daydream.

He is currently finishing up a tour with fellow Brit, Red Cassette, where the two road tripped it across the US to play in the intimate settings of music lovers' living rooms.

(Personal favorite: "Love Letter" from The Challenge of Feral Green EP)

5. Red Cassette- United Kingdom

Andrew Balls makes up the one-man group of Red Cassette. If you are ever given the opportunity to watch him play, snatch it up. His fast pickin' fingers, guitar thumping, and impromptu fancy feet are only the icing on the cake. His talents range from moving ballads, to toe tapping melodies, each one with its own compelling story.

(Personal favorite: "In My Catastrophe" from Monkey Love Records)

So, there are some artists I think you'll enjoy. Check them out and let me know what you think!